Traditional Tattoos
– Samoan tattooing has been a tradition for over two thousand years.
– It symbolizes Samoan pride in their culture.
– Tatau is one of the most significant traditional Samoan tattoos.
– It represents family, community, and ancestry.
Pe’a
– The pea is a traditional Samoan tattoo that covers the body from the torso to the knees.
– It symbolizes the transition from childhood to adulthood.
– It requires courage and strength to endure the tattooing process.
– The pea signifies readiness for leadership roles and special privileges in Samoan society.
Malu
– The male is a female Samoan tattoo that covers the lower body.
– It symbolizes modesty, dignity, and protection for family members.
– It used to be rare but is becoming more common.
– Women often get the malu to commemorate significant life events.
Tatau
– tattoos symbolize community, power, status, respect, honor, and pride in Samoan culture.
– Men typically display tatau on the chest, while women opt for a tattoo on their legs.
– The sun is a common symbol in Samoan tatau, representing wealth, leadership, and power.
– The tattooing process can be painful but has deep cultural significance.
Bradens Ta’ala’s Experience
– Braden Ta’ala got a pe’a tattooed by a Samoan tufuga.
– It was a life-altering experience that required travel and enduring pain.
– Ta’ala carefully considered the meaning of his tattoo, representing his family, culture, and future.